Momčilo’s Town is situated 8 kilometers east from Žabljak, at the edge of the Jezerska Plateau, just above the Tara river. Here, visitors can see the remains of the medieval town of Pirlitor, dating back to the 14th century, which is believed to have been build by Vojvoda Sandalj Hranić Kosača, who is believed to have been the mightiest ruler of the state of Bosnia. Pirlitor used to be the only fortified spot in the area, and Kosača dwelled in the city in 1453. It is thought that one of the hills in the area was named Sandaljev.
The ruins of the city are located on a hill and we could say that they are not in the best of states at the moment. Pirlitor is far more famous for Vojvoda Momčilo, who died because his wife’s treason. A local folk song, Ženidba Kralja Vukašina, mentions Momčilo by name, but even more famous than this folk song is the legend of Vojvoda Momčilo of Pirlitor.
Legend has it that Momčilo owned a winged horse named Jabučilo, who was invincible, no sword could cill him. Interestingly, Jabučilo is the only famous winged horse in Montenegrin legends. Vidisava was the wife of Vojvoda Momčilo. She made a deal with King Vukašin and she told him Jabučilo’s secret, that he only showed his wings at sunrise. She burned the horse’s wings, making him vulnerable for the first time. When King Vukašin organized an attack on Momčilo, he was unable to flee because Jabučilo could no longer fly. This was thought to be the end of Momčilo, and the story of his wife and horse are still passed along from generation to generation.
Momčilo’s “town“ is the name of a hill above Žabljak, surrounded by pastures and forests, which will surely be a source of enjoyment for all who visit it. There is a restaurant that serves national delicacies, nearby , the Momčilov Grad. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try delicacies such as pršut, kajmak (these are traditional dishes, therefore impossible to translate) and brandy, all while enjoying the view and pure mountain air.
Author of the text:
Marijana Niković licensed tourist guide for Montenegro.
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